Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for using a packet switching (PS) data off function, the method performed by a user equipment (UE) and comprising: determining whether a session management (SM) back-off timer or a mobility management (MM) back-off timer is running, if a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for an SM needs to be transmitted due to an activation request or a deactivation request of the PS data off function; and transmitting, by an NAS layer of the UE, the NAS request message for the SM including information on an activation status or a deactivation status of the PS data off function.
This invention relates to packet switching (PS) data off functionality in user equipment (UE) within wireless communication systems. The problem addressed is ensuring proper handling of session management (SM) and mobility management (MM) back-off timers when activating or deactivating the PS data off function, which temporarily disables data transmission over packet-switched networks. The invention provides a method for a UE to determine whether an SM or MM back-off timer is active before transmitting a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for SM operations related to the PS data off function. If such a timer is running, the UE adjusts its behavior accordingly. The NAS layer of the UE then transmits the NAS request message, which includes information indicating whether the PS data off function is being activated or deactivated. This ensures that SM procedures are correctly managed during PS data off transitions, preventing conflicts with ongoing back-off timers and maintaining network stability. The method improves reliability in handling PS data off requests while adhering to existing NAS signaling protocols.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: overriding or stopping the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer before the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer expires, if it is determined that the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is running.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically managing back-off timers in devices supporting multiple radio access technologies (RATs), such as 3GPP's 5G New Radio (NR) and LTE. The problem addressed is inefficient resource utilization and unnecessary delays when a device transitions between different RATs or modes, such as switching between standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) modes in 5G networks. Back-off timers, such as the Service Mode (SM) back-off timer and Mobility Management (MM) back-off timer, are used to regulate retries after failed procedures, but their default operation can lead to suboptimal performance when the device's operational context changes. The invention improves upon prior art by dynamically overriding or stopping these back-off timers before they expire if it is determined that either timer is actively running. This prevents unnecessary waiting periods when the device's state or network conditions change, allowing for faster recovery and more efficient use of network resources. The solution ensures that back-off timers do not persist in scenarios where they are no longer relevant, such as during mode transitions or when new network conditions render the original back-off period obsolete. This approach enhances system responsiveness and reduces latency in wireless communication systems.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the NAS request message for the SM includes cause information representing why the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is overridden, or an indicator representing that the NAS request message is not configured with a low priority.
A system and method for managing network access in wireless communication networks, particularly for handling back-off timers in non-access stratum (NAS) procedures. The invention addresses inefficiencies in prioritizing network access requests, where devices with low-priority services may unnecessarily delay access due to back-off timers, leading to suboptimal resource utilization and user experience. The method involves transmitting a NAS request message from a user device to a network node, such as an access and mobility management function (AMF) or a session management function (SMF). The NAS request message includes a service request (SR) or a registration request (RR) for initiating or resuming a communication session. The message may override a back-off timer, either a session management (SM) back-off timer or a mobility management (MM) back-off timer, which are typically used to delay repeated access attempts after failed procedures. To justify the override, the NAS request message includes cause information explaining why the back-off timer is being bypassed. Alternatively, the message may include an indicator confirming that the request is not configured with low priority, ensuring that high-priority services are not unnecessarily delayed. This approach improves network efficiency by dynamically adjusting access control based on service priority and network conditions. The method ensures that critical services receive timely access while maintaining orderly network operations.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: recoding in a timestamp a time point when the PS data off function needs to be activated or deactivated, if it is determined that the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is running; and wherein the NAS request message for the SM is transmitted when the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer expires.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically managing power-saving (PS) data functions in devices like smartphones or IoT devices when network access is restricted due to back-off timers. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient power management while complying with network restrictions that temporarily block certain operations, such as service request messages, due to back-off timers. The method involves monitoring whether a signaling management (SM) back-off timer or mobility management (MM) back-off timer is active. If either timer is running, the system records a timestamp indicating when the PS data off function should be activated or deactivated. The PS data off function controls power-saving states, such as disabling data transmission to conserve battery. The system then transmits a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for SM operations only after the back-off timer expires, ensuring compliance with network restrictions while optimizing power usage. This approach prevents unnecessary power consumption during restricted periods and ensures proper synchronization with network policies. The timestamp recording allows the device to schedule PS data operations precisely when allowed, improving efficiency and battery life. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where devices frequently transition between active and idle states, such as in IoT applications or mobile devices with intermittent connectivity.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the NAS request message for the SM includes: information on a difference value between the time point identified by the timestamp and a time point when the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer expires.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for handling back-off timers in network access procedures. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in managing back-off timers during network access, particularly when a user equipment (UE) needs to retransmit a service request message (SM) or mobility management (MM) request message after a back-off period. The method involves transmitting a non-access stratum (NAS) request message that includes a timestamp indicating when the UE initially attempted to send the request. The NAS request message further includes information on the difference between the timestamp time point and the expiration time of either the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer. This difference value helps the network determine the remaining back-off time, allowing for more efficient scheduling and resource allocation. The back-off timers are used to prevent congestion by delaying retransmissions after a failed attempt. The inclusion of the timestamp and difference value enables the network to better manage these timers, reducing unnecessary delays and improving overall system performance. The method ensures that the UE can resume its request procedure at the appropriate time, minimizing service interruptions and optimizing network resource usage.
6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the NAS request message for the SM further includes the timestamp.
A system and method for managing network access security (NAS) request messages in a communication network involves transmitting a NAS request message from a user device to a network entity, where the message includes a timestamp. The timestamp is used to verify the freshness and validity of the request, preventing replay attacks and ensuring secure communication. The NAS request message may also include authentication data, such as a subscriber identity or cryptographic credentials, to authenticate the user device with the network. The network entity processes the NAS request message by validating the timestamp and authentication data before granting access. This method enhances security by ensuring that only timely and authenticated requests are processed, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or fraudulent activities. The timestamp may be generated by the user device or derived from a trusted time source, ensuring synchronization and accuracy. The system may further include mechanisms to handle timestamp discrepancies, such as adjusting for network delays or rejecting outdated requests. This approach improves the reliability and security of network access procedures in wireless and wired communication systems.
7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: overriding or stopping the MM back-off timer before the MM back-off timer expires, if it is determined that the MM back-off timer is running; and transmitting a NAS request message for the MM before transmitting the NAS request message for the SM.
In wireless communication systems, particularly in mobile networks, devices must manage mobility management (MM) and session management (SM) procedures to maintain connectivity and service continuity. A common challenge is ensuring efficient handling of network requests when multiple procedures are pending, especially when timers like the MM back-off timer are active. The MM back-off timer is used to delay retransmissions of MM-related requests after a failure, preventing network congestion. However, this can delay critical SM procedures, impacting service performance. This invention addresses this issue by introducing a method to override or stop the MM back-off timer before it expires if it is determined to be running. This allows the device to prioritize the transmission of a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) request message for SM over the MM request, ensuring timely execution of session-related procedures without unnecessary delays. The method ensures that the SM request is sent first, improving service responsiveness while maintaining network stability. By dynamically managing the MM back-off timer, the invention optimizes the handling of concurrent MM and SM procedures, enhancing overall system efficiency and user experience.
8. The method of claim 7 , further comprising: delivering, by the NAS layer and to a radio resource control (RRC) layer, an indication for instructing to skip a barring check for an access control, a call type, a value for an RRC establishment cause field or category information, if an RRC connection establishment procedure is needed before transmitting the NAS request message for the MM.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving access control mechanisms in mobile networks. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and potential delays caused by redundant barring checks during radio resource control (RRC) connection establishment procedures, particularly when a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for mobility management (MM) is involved. The invention describes a method where a NAS layer communicates with an RRC layer to optimize access control. When an RRC connection establishment is required before transmitting a NAS request message for MM, the NAS layer sends an indication to the RRC layer. This indication instructs the RRC layer to skip the barring check for access control, which may include parameters such as call type, RRC establishment cause field value, or category information. By bypassing unnecessary barring checks, the method reduces latency and improves the efficiency of the connection establishment process, particularly in scenarios where the NAS request is critical for mobility management functions. The solution enhances network performance by streamlining the interaction between NAS and RRC layers, ensuring faster and more reliable access control decisions. This is particularly useful in high-traffic scenarios where minimizing redundant checks is essential for maintaining service quality.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the access control includes at least one of: an access class barring (ACB), an extended access barring (EAB), and an application specific congestion control for data communication (ACDC).
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing access control in cellular networks to prevent congestion and ensure fair resource allocation. The problem addressed is the need to regulate device access during network overload, particularly for specific applications or user groups, to maintain service quality and prevent degradation. The method involves implementing access control mechanisms to restrict or prioritize device access based on predefined criteria. These mechanisms include access class barring (ACB), which blocks certain user equipment (UE) classes during congestion; extended access barring (EAB), which allows network operators to bar specific devices or services; and application-specific congestion control for data communication (ACDC), which manages access based on application type to prevent overload from high-demand services. The method dynamically applies these access control techniques to balance network load, ensuring critical services remain available while limiting non-essential traffic. By selectively barring or prioritizing access, the system optimizes resource usage and maintains network stability during peak demand. The approach is particularly useful in scenarios where network congestion could otherwise lead to service disruptions or degraded performance.
10. The method of claim 7 , wherein the NAS request message for the MM further includes: cause information representing why the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is overridden, or an indicator representing that the NAS request message is not configured with a low priority.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for handling back-off timers in non-access stratum (NAS) procedures. The problem addressed is the inefficient management of back-off timers in NAS signaling, which can lead to unnecessary delays or resource wastage when a user equipment (UE) is required to wait before retrying a failed procedure. The method involves modifying a NAS request message sent from a UE to a network node, such as an access and mobility management function (AMF) or session management function (SMF). The NAS request message includes additional information to control back-off timers used in mobility management (MM) or session management (SM) procedures. Specifically, the message may include cause information explaining why an SM back-off timer or MM back-off timer is being overridden, or an indicator confirming that the NAS request message is not configured with low priority. This allows the network to make more informed decisions about whether to enforce or ignore the back-off timers, improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary delays. The method ensures that back-off timers are applied appropriately, preventing excessive retries while maintaining network stability. By providing explicit reasons for overriding timers or confirming priority status, the network can optimize resource allocation and UE behavior. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where immediate retry is necessary despite a back-off timer being active.
11. A user equipment (UE) for using a packet switching (PS) data off function, the UE comprising: a transceiver; and a processor which controls the transceiver, wherein the processor performs: determining whether a session management (SM) back-off timer or a mobility management (MM) back-off timer is running, if a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for an SM needs to be transmitted due to an activation request or a deactivation request of the PS data off function; and transmitting, by an NAS layer, the NAS request message for the SM including information on an activation status or a deactivation status of the PS data off function.
This invention relates to user equipment (UE) in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the management of packet switching (PS) data off functionality. The PS data off feature allows a UE to selectively disable packet-switched data services while maintaining access to circuit-switched services, improving power efficiency and reducing unnecessary data usage. The problem solved is ensuring proper handling of session management (SM) and mobility management (MM) back-off timers when activating or deactivating the PS data off function, preventing conflicts or disruptions in network signaling. The UE includes a transceiver and a processor that controls it. When an activation or deactivation request for the PS data off function is received, the processor checks whether an SM back-off timer or an MM back-off timer is currently running. If either timer is active, the UE transmits a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for SM, including information about the activation or deactivation status of the PS data off function. This ensures that the network is properly informed of the UE's data off state, even when back-off timers are active, maintaining synchronization between the UE and the network. The solution optimizes resource usage and avoids signaling conflicts during transitions between active and inactive PS data states.
12. The UE of claim 11 , wherein the processor overrides or stops the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer before the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer expires, if it is determined that the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is running.
In wireless communication systems, user equipment (UE) may experience service disruptions due to back-off timers, such as session management (SM) or mobility management (MM) back-off timers, which delay retry attempts after failed procedures. These timers prevent immediate retries but can lead to prolonged service interruptions if the underlying issue is resolved or if the timer duration is excessive. The invention addresses this by enabling the UE to actively manage these timers. Specifically, the UE monitors whether an SM or MM back-off timer is running. If the timer is active, the UE evaluates whether overriding or stopping the timer is appropriate. Upon determining that the timer should be terminated early, the UE stops or resets the timer before its natural expiration. This proactive intervention allows the UE to resume service attempts sooner, improving connectivity and reducing unnecessary delays. The solution applies to scenarios where the UE detects conditions that make continued timer operation unnecessary, such as network recovery or successful procedure completion. By dynamically controlling back-off timers, the UE enhances efficiency and user experience in wireless networks.
13. The UE of claim 11 , wherein the processor inserts, into the NAS request message for the SM, cause information representing why the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is overridden, or an indicator representing that the NAS request message is not configured with a low priority.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to user equipment (UE) handling network access requests in scenarios where back-off timers are active. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient and timely communication when a UE needs to override standard back-off timers (e.g., session management (SM) or mobility management (MM) back-off timers) that are typically used to manage network congestion or resource allocation. These timers prevent immediate access to avoid overloading the network, but certain situations may require overriding them. The UE includes a processor that generates a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for session management (SM). When overriding an active SM or MM back-off timer, the processor inserts cause information into the NAS request message to explain why the override is necessary. Alternatively, if the NAS request message is not configured with low priority, the processor includes an indicator to signal this status. This ensures the network can properly assess the request and manage resources accordingly. The solution improves communication efficiency by providing clear context for timer overrides while maintaining network stability.
14. The UE of claim 11 , wherein the processor records in a timestamp a time point when the PS data off function needs to be activated or deactivated, if it is determined that the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is running; and wherein the NAS request message for the SM is transmitted when the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer expires.
In wireless communication systems, user equipment (UE) may need to manage power-saving (PS) data off functions while handling registration or session management (SM) procedures. A challenge arises when a UE must activate or deactivate a PS data off function while a session management (SM) back-off timer or mobility management (MM) back-off timer is running. If the UE proceeds with the PS data off function during an active back-off timer, it may disrupt ongoing procedures or violate network policies. To address this, a UE includes a processor that records a timestamp when the PS data off function needs to be activated or deactivated, provided that either the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is currently running. The UE then defers transmitting a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for session management until the relevant back-off timer expires. This ensures that the PS data off function is only applied after the back-off period concludes, preventing conflicts with ongoing procedures. The solution improves compliance with network policies while maintaining efficient power management.
15. The UE of claim 14 , wherein the NAS request message for the SM includes: information on a difference value between the time point identified by the timestamp and a time point when the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer expires.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to user equipment (UE) handling non-access stratum (NAS) request messages for session management (SM) or mobility management (MM) procedures. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in managing back-off timers during NAS procedures, which can lead to unnecessary delays or repeated attempts when the UE is temporarily barred from certain operations. The UE is configured to generate and transmit a NAS request message for SM or MM procedures. The message includes a timestamp indicating a specific time point relevant to the procedure. Additionally, the UE includes information on a difference value between the timestamp time point and the expiration time of either an SM back-off timer or an MM back-off timer. This difference value helps the network assess how much time remains before the UE can resume the barred operation, improving resource management and reducing unnecessary signaling. The SM back-off timer is used to delay SM-related procedures, such as session establishment or modification, while the MM back-off timer delays mobility-related procedures, such as registration or tracking area updates. By providing the difference value, the UE enables the network to make more informed decisions, such as whether to proceed with the request or wait until the back-off timer expires. This enhances efficiency in NAS procedure handling and reduces unnecessary signaling overhead.
16. The UE of claim 14 , wherein the NAS request message for the SM further includes the timestamp.
A system and method for enhancing network communication in a wireless network, particularly for user equipment (UE) interacting with a network access stratum (NAS) layer. The invention addresses inefficiencies in NAS signaling, such as delays or errors in service management (SM) procedures, by improving the handling of NAS request messages. The UE generates a NAS request message for SM procedures, which includes a timestamp to track the timing of the request. This timestamp helps synchronize operations between the UE and the network, ensuring timely processing and reducing latency. The UE may also include additional identifiers, such as a protocol data unit (PDU) session identifier, to uniquely associate the request with a specific session. The timestamp and identifiers enable the network to prioritize or validate requests, improving reliability and efficiency in service management. The invention applies to wireless communication systems, including 5G and beyond, where precise timing and accurate request handling are critical for seamless connectivity.
17. The UE of claim 11 , wherein the processor overrides or stops the MM back-off timer before the MM back-off timer expires, if it is determined that the MM back-off timer is running; and transmits a NAS request message for the MM before transmitting the NAS request message for the SM.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to managing mobility management (MM) and session management (SM) procedures in a user equipment (UE) device. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in handling MM and SM procedures when a back-off timer is running, which can delay critical communication requests. The UE includes a processor configured to control communication with a network. When the UE needs to transmit a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for session management (SM), the processor first checks if an MM back-off timer is running. If the timer is active, the processor overrides or stops the timer before it expires. This ensures that the UE can transmit an MM-related NAS request message before sending the SM-related NAS request message. By preventing the MM back-off timer from delaying the MM procedure, the UE avoids unnecessary delays in establishing or maintaining communication sessions. This approach improves the efficiency and reliability of MM and SM procedures in wireless networks.
18. The UE of claim 17 , wherein the processor inserts, in the NAS request message for the MM, cause information representing why the SM back-off timer or the MM back-off timer is overridden, or an indicator representing that the NAS request message is not configured with a low priority.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to user equipment (UE) handling network access requests in scenarios involving back-off timers. The problem addressed is the inefficient handling of non-emergency network access requests when back-off timers (either service management (SM) or mobility management (MM) back-off timers) are active, which can lead to unnecessary delays or repeated failed attempts. The UE includes a processor configured to generate a non-access stratum (NAS) request message for mobility management (MM) procedures. When an SM back-off timer or MM back-off timer is active, the processor overrides the timer and inserts cause information into the NAS request message to indicate why the back-off timer is being overridden. Alternatively, the processor may insert an indicator into the NAS request message to explicitly state that the request is not configured with low priority, ensuring the network processes the request appropriately without unnecessary delays. This solution improves network efficiency by allowing UEs to bypass back-off timers for higher-priority requests while providing transparency to the network about the reason for the override. The invention ensures that non-emergency requests are handled more effectively, reducing unnecessary signaling and improving overall system performance.
Unknown
March 17, 2020
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